Fleet Valley National Scenic Area Knocktinkle Viewpoint How to get there Follow the course of the Water of Fleet from the heather Cairnsmore of Fleet dominates the head of the valley and Take the Laurieston Road from Gatehouse of Fleet. hilltops as it cuts its way unseen through the steep valley is one of the few Galloway hills to remain unforested Follow the road for 21/4 miles up through the Dumfries and Galloway clothed in oak woods. Glimpse the river as it meanders from valley to summit. The craggy cliffs of the Clints of broadleaved woodland of the valley and cross the cattle through the rich farmland pastures until it reaches the Dromore and the abandoned railway viaduct are dramatic grid into open moorland. The viewpoint is just beyond historic gem of Gatehouse of Fleet. landmarks in the landscape. Visitors are welcome at the the cattle grid on the eastern side of the road. The information centre. viewpoint is signposted from Gatehouse of Fleet. Water was once the power behind this historic industrial National Scenic Areas town, which lies at the heart of the National Scenic Area. Castramont Wood, the largest ancient oak wood in the Now the river reaches the Fleet Bay by canal, spreading valley, provides spectacular colour throughout the year Viewpoint out across the vast gleaming intertidal muds and sands. especially in the autumn. In the past it was managed to produce charcoal, but now is renowned for its stunning Geology has formed this landscape, between the granite carpet of bluebells in the Spring. dome of Cairnsmore of Fleet and the rocky Isles of Fleet, Knocktinkle viewpoint is part of a developing network dry stone dykes divide and pattern the landscape. As the valley reaches the coast Rutherford’s Monument of viewpoints that are being created across the three can be seen silhouetted against the sky. This granite National Scenic Areas in the region. The Fleet Valley is a living, working landscape. It has been obelisk was erected to the memory of Reverend Samuel home to people and animals for many thousands of years, Rutherford, who ministered in the parish of Anwoth and farming continues to shape the landscape of today. between 1627 and 1639.
From Knocktinkle viewpoint you can join the circular walk from Laghead to Lagg, or can walk up to Loch Whinyeon, The natural place the water source for the many former mills in the town. Visit the restored Mill on the Fleet, now a visitor centre, Knocktinkle Viewpoint Photo © Allan Devlin; Illustration © Hugh Bryden to find out about walks and to discover more about the Fleet Valley National Scenic Area.
Another spectacular view can be enjoyed at the coastal Maps are based on Ordnance Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the viewpoint at Knockbrex Hill on the Carrick shore. Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office. © Crown Copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. LA 100016994 2008 National Scenic Areas
Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Fleet Valley, its rich history and wonderful wildlife.
From coast to cairns, from lochs to lades, and from crabs to curlews – there is so much to explore it feels like Scotland in miniature!
The area, recognised as one of the most scenic parts of Scotland, has some spectacular views like this one from Knocktinkle, a viewpoint on the open hills surrounding the valley.
The rich mix of sea, rocky coast, river and moorland hills is highly valued by locals and visitors alike, and has inspired many writers and painters. We hope it will inspire you to come and enjoy it too!